It was more of a gradual motion, where music changed from a hobby to something that I enjoyed more than anything else. Somewhere in the fifteen-sixteen age. When I got to college is when I really bit down on it as the only important thing in my life.

Your sound and approach to music:

Is to inject as much of myself into the music while respectfully playing the style I'm performing in. Also, using your ability to coax as many different sounds as possible out of the instrument I play. I also like to play really damn loud.<

Your teaching approach:

To use each person's likes and dislikes to show them the basics and really lay the groundwork to do whatever you want to do.

Your dream band:

There are so many, but one that I've always thought about was a trio with Bill Frisell

, where we play old-time fiddle tunes and gospel numbers. That would be too much fun.

Road story: Your best or worst experience:

When at Amiri Baracka's 75th birthday, after being flung nervously onto the stage by the guy who was running the acts, Danny Glover came up and introduced himself to me and said "I love your work." That was odd.

Favorite venue:

Le Poisson Rouge. It sounds so fantastic on the stage and it's just such a wonderful place to play. Cornelia Street Cafe is also wonderful, and I have alot of love for the Stone as well.